DRAWING CONCLUSIONS -- TIRANT DES CONCLUSIONS -- SACANDO CONCLUSIONES

The verse in today’s readings that finds the most obvious echo in the message of La Salette is this, from

Ezekiel: “The lost I will seek out, the strayed I will bring it back.”

Yes, the Blessed Virgin intended to bring her people back to the practice of their faith. She indicated, from the Scriptures and the long-standing practice of the Church, the means to facilitate their return.

But if we limit ourselves to a literal reading of the message, we might be at a loss to make a connection to the other readings. St. Paul does speak of the authority of Jesus, which could be linked to Mary’s complaints about the abuse of her Son’s name. But what of the Final Judgment scene in Matthew? Mary is aware of the poverty and hardships of her people, but says nothing directly about reaching out to those in need.

But we may not, must not limit ourselves in this way. The point of inviting people to return to the practice of their faith, is that they may live that faith in its entirety, in the light of the Gospel.

Think about it. How could we respect the name of God and at the same time not have respect for those around us, especially those most in need?

How can we pray, “at night and in the morning,” how can we adopt Lenten practices each year, and not be aware of the death of children and the famines that continue to occur in our world.

How can we hear Mary say, “It is on account of yourselves,” and not feel challenged to do our part to uproot the causes of the tragedy of war and violence.

It is especially on the Seventh Day, at Eucharist, that we hear, over time, the whole teaching of the Scriptures, and are invited to draw appropriate conclusions for our Christian life.

Many times in the Gospels—the Good News—Jesus renews the challenge of discipleship. Few passages are more emphatic in this respect than today’s demanding passage from Matthew.

Why would the “Great News” of Our Lady of La Salette be any different?